What does bookert Washington quotes means you can't hold man down without staying down with him?

Answer 1

The way I understand it is you're no better or you're just as bad as the people you try to put down.

Answer 2

This quote by Booker T. Washington emphasizes that oppressing or limiting someone can also have negative effects on the oppressor. It suggests that maintaining control or power over others often requires a significant investment of one's own well-being or moral integrity. In other words, oppressing someone ultimately degrades both the oppressor and the oppressed.